Juicy Oven-Baked Chicken Breasts
If you’re looking for the juiciest, most flavorful chicken breast without any fuss, this oven-baked recipe is your answer.
With just a few simple ingredients—like a touch of brown sugar to lock in moisture and a high-temperature bake for a perfect golden crust—this chicken comes out tender, succulent, and full of flavor every time.
Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate easy dinner solution you’ll turn to again and again!
For Oven-Baked Chicken Breasts
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (150-180g / 5-6 oz each) work best for this recipe. You can also use chicken thighs if preferred.
- Olive Oil – To help coat the chicken and enhance the flavor.
- Brown Sugar – A key ingredient to help lock in moisture and create a natural sauce while baking.
- Paprika – Adds a subtle smoky flavor to the chicken.
- Dried Oregano – Adds a nice herby touch (or use thyme or other herbs of choice).
- Garlic Powder – For a touch of savory depth in the seasoning.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.
Optional Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – For a pop of color and freshness.
Oven-Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
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Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (150-180g / 5-6 oz each)
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
Seasoning:
- 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or thyme, or herb of choice)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish:
- Freshly chopped parsley
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or 200°C for fan ovens.
- Pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1.5 cm (0.6") at the thickest part using a rolling pin, meat mallet, or even your fist. This ensures even cooking and keeps the chicken tender.
- In a small bowl, mix the seasoning ingredients (brown sugar, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper).
- Line a baking tray with foil and parchment paper. Place the chicken breasts on the tray, upside down.
- Drizzle about 1 teaspoon of olive oil over the chicken and rub it in evenly. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over the chicken.
- Flip the chicken breasts over. Drizzle with the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil, rub it in, and coat the chicken with the remaining seasoning.
- Bake for 18 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown on the outside, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and transfer it to serving plates.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Notes:
- For larger chicken breasts (e.g., 250g / 8 oz or more), slice them in half horizontally to create thinner steaks, avoiding the need to pound them.
- You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Cook small to medium thighs for 25 minutes, or larger ones for 30 minutes.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 286 kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 46g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 127mg | Sodium: 403mg | Potassium: 397mg | Fiber: 0g | Sugar: 4g
Vitamin A: 325 IU | Vitamin C: 1.7mg | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 0.6mg
- How do I keep my chicken breasts juicy and tender?
To keep your chicken juicy, make sure to pound it to an even thickness. This helps the chicken cook more evenly and keeps it moist. If you’re short on time, you can even try brining the chicken briefly in saltwater for extra moisture.
- Can I swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer dark meat. Just be sure to cook them a little longer—about 25 minutes for smaller thighs and 30 minutes for larger ones.
- Why do I need to pound the chicken?
Pounding the chicken to an even thickness helps it cook more evenly. This step ensures you don’t end up with overcooked edges and undercooked centers. Plus, it makes the chicken more tender!
- What if my chicken breasts are too large?
If you have big chicken breasts (over 180g / 6 oz), just cut them in half horizontally. This creates thinner pieces that cook faster and more evenly, plus you won’t need to pound them!
- Can I bake the chicken at a lower temperature to make it easier?
Baking at a higher temperature (425°F/220°C) ensures the chicken cooks quickly and gets that perfect golden crust. If you lower the temperature, the chicken might not brown as nicely, so it’s best to stick with the higher heat for that juicy, crisp result!
